The Chairman of the Osun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Olawale Isola, has called on intending pilgrims for the 2024 Hajj exercise to finalize their payments by Monday, February 12, in order to participate in this year's pilgrimage.
Hajj, a fundamental practice in Islam, involves the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, a mandatory journey for every adult Muslim at least once in their lifetime. It is considered the fifth of the Five Pillars of Islam.
Isola emphasized the spiritual significance of the pilgrimage, urging pilgrims to prioritize worship and service to Allah over material pursuits.
He advised them to refrain from transactions involving clothes, jewelry, and other worldly items until after the Arafah rituals.
He stated, "They are going there to serve and worship Allah, not for mundane materials. I implore all of them to suspend all transactions of buying clothes, jewellery and other things till after they are done with Arafah."
Isola provided details on the total Hajj fare for the 2024 operation, which amounts to N4,899,000. He encouraged intending pilgrims to meet the payment deadline and submit their international passports promptly, emphasizing the need for preparation and understanding of Hajj activities.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has also set the same fare for the 2024 Hajj exercise and established February 12 as the payment deadline.
According to Taofeek Lawal, Assistant Director of the Public Affairs unit, this announcement aligns with the directive from the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Malam Jalal Arabi.
Speaking during a meeting with intending pilgrims in Osogbo, Isola stressed the importance of sacrifices, steadfastness, and perseverance for a rewarding Hajj operation.
He urged patience and commitment, emphasizing that pilgrims must temporarily set aside worldly affairs to achieve a meaningful pilgrimage experience.
As the deadline approaches, the Osun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board anticipates the completion of payments and the submission of necessary documents for a smooth and successful Hajj operation in 2024.